NORTHAMPTONSHIRE IRONSTONE RAILWAY TRUST

NIRT NEWS...

It’s only the start of the year and already much has been done here at Hunsbury. After Christmas operations, Phase 2 of our reconstruction swung into operation.  It is the aim of the Trust to reinstate the former running line to Top station, which in effect will double our operational line. There is much to do however to make this happen.

Our working members have now collectively cut some 400 + meters of hedgerow from an average of 5 meters in height down to 1 meter. This mammoth task has taken 6 Sundays – so far but our finishing point, Foot Xing is now sort of in sight. Needless to say there is a mountain of stuff to get rid of. Once this task has been completed the 7 panel gap of track will be reinstated to allow the passage of a train. The former xing will be re-established along with gates & fencing. Sleepers will be replaced where required and the S&C serviced and brought back in to operation.

Generally the track is not too bad, but it will eventually require complete replacement. A new station plateform will have to be constructed. Donations toward this project would be gratefully received. On completion of the track works, the ORR will be called for an inspection, hopefully we should be ready for Christmas 2008 – well that’s the plan!

For a full roundup of our news see NIRT ONLINE as much has happened in the past 12 months. Our Chairman, Ian Cave has prepared a report which has been circulated to the membership via the postal system and is also available online for the public to view.

Our new timetable will be available in the next few weeks. The trust is normally only open to the public on those dates published. Other visits etc are strictly by prior arrangement only.

The Trust can be booked for private functions such as parties, wedding anniversaries etc. We have two centrally heated static coaches set in a secluded garden available and a fully staffed train for rides only for you and your guests – the perfect spot for your event. Contact the Trust in the first instance for details & availability.